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Snagging List: Everything You Need to Know

4th Aug, 2016

It’s finally time to move into your brand new build home! You’ve packed the last box, labelled them all and you’re counting down the days until the removal van appears. But, before you get settled into your new house, it’s important to look for any imperfections or building defects and compile an all-important snagging list. If you’re unfamiliar with this or want to know how the snagging process works, we’ve compiled everything you need to know right here at Lovell Homes.

What is a Snagging List?

Simply put, a snagging list is a checklist of flaws you find in your new build home. As a new construction, the builders are obligated to fix any defects to Building Regulations standard prior to closing the sale, and it’s more beneficial to submit your snagging list as soon as possible – even before you officially move in, if you can. Snagging defects can range from minor decoration flaws, such as scratched worktops or paint on the skirting boards, to serious issues that could affect your safety, which should be fixed immediately. No matter how small the issue, if it’s not perfect – put it on the snagging list!

What should you include on your Snagging List?

It’s not uncommon for homebuyers to encounter problems when compiling their snagging list. The biggest issue is often what to include on it! More often than not, the snagging list turns into more of a wish list, with homebuyers asking for things like sockets to be moved and light fittings to be changed – these things aren’t snags. A snag is simply a mistake the builder has made and is responsible to rectify.

It’s also not unheard of for people to think they need a professional to do a thorough snagging inspection of the property, which can be costly. Not only is this unnecessary, it won’t be as beneficial as the homebuyer themselves completing the snagging list, as they’ll be able to spot things that others won’t. All you need to do is take each room at a time and know what kind of thing you’re looking for. Remember, buying a new house is not like buying a new car – most things will have been completed by hand in your new home, likely by a builder working to tight deadlines, so there’s always room for human error. Rest assured you have the power to raise these issues with your builders and ensure your new place is perfect!

Where to start?

When you arrive at the property to complete your snagging inspection, the first thing to do is turn the radiators on to check for any leaks. Next, make sure all your taps are functioning, run the bath or shower, and flush all the toilets to ensure the water is working. Another easy thing to do during your inspection is to check all the sockets are live by simply plugging something in, like your phone charger. Once you have established that the water and electricity are in working order, it’s time to look for any surface imperfections and cosmetic defects, as well as testing all the doors and windows. Try to bring at least one other person with you to help you inspect the property, as a fresh pair of eyes always come in handy when spotting issues.

The most important thing of all when compiling your snagging list is taking your time! Don’t let yourself be pressured into carrying out the inspection before the building is actually complete and always be confident in your requests. If in doubt about whether an issue actually belongs on the list, you can always ask the site manager for guidance – or add it anyway, as there’s no harm in erring on the side of caution.

Submitting your Snagging List

Once you’re happy with your snagging list, you should ideally type it up and deliver it to your builder’s head office. It’s important to keep track of when you submitted your list and give the builders a realistic timeframe for completing the requests. As much as you’re eager to move into your brand new house, you need to be patient and give the builders enough time to ensure your home is flawless!